More or Less: Behind the Stats
Did Mussolini make the trains run on time?
Dec 21, 2024
Ruth Ben-Ghiat, a history professor at NYU and author of the bestseller Strongman, dives into the myth behind Mussolini's famous claim that he made the trains run on time. She examines how this narrative shaped Italy's image during his dictatorship. Discover how Mussolini's regime manipulated the railway system and media to promote a façade of efficiency while often neglecting local services. Ben-Ghiat reveals the complex reality of Mussolini's propaganda, illustrating the stark contrast between elite train services and the actual state of public transport.
08:58
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Quick takeaways
- Mussolini's regime used propaganda to promote the efficiency of the railway system, focusing on selective improvements to shape public perception.
- While major routes experienced enhancements under Mussolini, significant neglect remained in local lines, reflecting the disparity in infrastructure development across Italy.
Deep dives
Mussolini's Use of Propaganda
Mussolini utilized propaganda effectively to promote the idea that he made the trains run on time, making it a major selling point for his regime. This narrative was crafted to showcase Mussolini's modernization efforts in Italy, with slogans similar to 'make Italy great again' gaining traction. The regime focused on improving the efficiency of trains primarily used by tourists, ensuring these lines adhered to schedules to create a favorable impression abroad. However, this selective emphasis masked rampant disorganization in less scrutinized areas of the railway system, ultimately highlighting the manipulability of public perception through controlled information.
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